Tale of the Tiger numbers: No. 9

Wayne Campbell celebrates a goal in the final quarter of round 8, 2002 against West Coast

In a special holiday season series, richmondfc.com.au is asking Tiger fans to select the best player to have worn each of the most significant guernsey numbers in the Club’s history. To assist in your quest, we have profiled those players who have racked up a minimum of 50 games in the number. The game totals and years listed relate to those played while wearing the specific number, not total Richmond career numbers. Today, our focus is on No. 9.

No. 9

Wayne Campbell – 266 games, 1992-2003 & 2005

First-rate midfielder, who provided the Tigers with excellent service over a long period of time due to his hard running, ball-winning ability, totally professional approach and leadership qualities. A four-time winner of the Jack Dyer Medal in 1995, 1997, 1999 and 2002, dual All-Australian representative in 1995 and 1999, and Club captain from 2001-2004. Was inducted into Richmond’s Hall of Fame in 2013.

Basil McCormack – 199 games, 1925-1936

Champion half-back throughout a successful era for Richmond. Possessed excellent judgment and anticipation, was a good mark, fine kick, tough, fearless, and displayed a robust approach to the game. A member of the Tigers’ 1932 and 1934 premiership sides, as well as the 1927, 1928, 1929, 1931 and 1933 Grand Final line-ups. Won the Club’s Best and Fairest in 1927 and 1928. Named on a half-back flank in Richmond’s Team of the Century.

Martin Bolger – 185 games, 1930-1939

Skilful, strong, determined and consistent back pocket. A member of the Tigers’ famous last line of defence, alongside Maurie Sheahan and Kevin O’Neill. Was rarely beaten throughout his decade-long career at Richmond. Played in the 1932 and 1934 premierships and was a member of the 1931 and 1933 Grand Final sides. Won the Club’s Best and Fairest award in 1936.

Trent Cotchin – 153 games, 2008-2015

Richmond’s first pick (No. 2 overall) in the 2007 National Draft, who has gone on to establish himself as a premier midfielder of the competition. Is a triple Jack Dyer Medallist (2011, 2012, 2014), won the prestigious AFL Coaches Association’s Player of the Year award in 2012, as well as finishing equal runner-up in the Brownlow Medal and gaining All-Australian selection that same season. Has captaind the Tigers for the past three years. Renowned for his prolific ball-winning ability and creativity.

Bill Perkins – 148 games, 1940-1949

Affectionately known as ‘Polly’, he was a tenacious, bold half-back, who was totally committed to the Yellow and Black cause. Was a member of Richmond’s 1943 premiership side and the 1944 Grand Final team. Won the Club’s Most Determined award in 1943 and 1948.

John Northey – 118 games, 1963-1970

The archetypal elusive half-forward flanker, who earned the nickname ‘Swooper’. Didn’t need many opportunities at all to inflict considerable damage on the scoreboard to the opposition. Read the play extremely well, had excellent ball-handling skills, and an innate goal sense. A member of Richmond’s 1967 and 1969 premiership sides.

Craig McKellar – 96 games, 1971-1975

Recruited by Richmond from SANFL club Woodville, he had a good leap and the ability to punch the ball forward a long way from either a centre bounce or boundary throw-in situation. Became the top knock ruckman in the competition. Played in the Tigers’ 1973 premiership and was a member of their 1972 Grand Final side.

Stan Morris – 52 games, 1919-1922

Was used as a wingman and back pocket during his four-season stint with Richmond. Had good pace, used the ball effectively, and was tough. A member of the Tigers’ inaugural league premiership team in 1920 and their Grand Final side the previous year.

Brian Boland – 50 games, 1950-1954

A tough defender, who worked his way through the ranks at Richmond and was a solid contributor for the Club.